When Will We See Apple’s Original TV Programming?

A new report offers insights into Apple’s push into television programming, including the news that the planned rollout is expected between March 2019 and summer 2019.

“Apple’s plans to make itself into a big player in the entertainment industry are now coming into focus,” The New York Times reports. “In recent months, the company has outspent Facebook and YouTube — two other tech companies that have also taken steps into original programming — as well as the traditional TV studios. In a few cases, it has also beaten Netflix in bidding wars.”

The report notes that Apple is also building a new 128,000-square-foot headquarters for its entertainment division in Culver City, Calif., the former home base of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer.

The Verge notes: “Apple currently has a 40-person team working on Apple Worldwide Video where it creates original content. … Apple plans to expand its portfolio of shows and is opening divisions for adult dramas, children’s shows, and programming for Latin America and Europe.”

The Verge adds: “There’s no indication yet of how Apple’s streaming service might work, but it will likely be a subscription service. Apple’s shows could be accessed through an app, or even Apple’s TV app, which also has access to content from services like HBO Now.”

The Verge also notes: “Unlike Netflix’s approach to create content for every possible taste, Apple is most likely chasing a binge-worthy hit. Last year, it poached TV executives Zack Van Amburg and Jamie Erlicht, known for hit series ‘Breaking Bad,’ from Sony Pictures Television. Amburg and Erlicht currently head Apple Worldwide Video.”

One Comment

In general, the producers could have given some kind of token advisory involvement to Olivia, if for no other reason than her incredible years of film greatness and continuing existence. Huh? Just something.